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The Defender's new 2.2-litre diesel engine produces 120bhp and is Euro5-compliant

An all-new 2.2-litre diesel engine replaces the outgoing 2.4-litre lump for the 2012 Land Rover Defender.

Despite the reduction in cubic capacity the new engine produces 120bhp at 3500rpm and 266lb ft of torque at 2000rpm, the same as the previous engine.

See pics of the new Land Rover Defender

Top speed has been raised to 90mph compared with the current Defender’s 82mph.

With the help of a diesel particulate filter, the unit produces 266g/km for the Defender 90 and 295g/km for the 110 and 130, complying with the EU5 emissions regulations- a first for the Defender.

For the 2012 model, the previously used six-speed gearbox has been kept, with a low first gear which “offers low crawl speed making towing on-road and off-road much easier.”

Two new option packs will be offered: the £1650 Comfort Pack includes air conditioning, CD player with auxiliary input, electric windows and remote central locking.

The £1500 Off-Road Pack offers ABS, heavy duty rims and off-road tyres, as well as a tow ball and an under-ride protection bar. Land Rover is now also offering a plain black hood for the pick up model.

Land Rover Global Brand Director John Edwards said: "With the introduction of the new 2.2-litre diesel engine and two option packs, the Defender for 2012 now offers greater customer choice than ever before.”

Prices for the 2012 Defender start from £21,895.

Sam Naylor

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